File Photo: Late Actor Salim Kumar

| Photo Credit:

R_K_Nithin

National Award-winning actor, writer-director and acclaimed mimicry artiste Salim Kumar passed away following a cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment at a private hospital on Saturday night. He was 56.According to hospital authorities, Salim Kumar was admitted with fever and breathing difficulties and was immediately placed on ventilator support. He had been battling multiple health issues, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic kidney disease requiring maintenance haemodialysis, coronary artery disease, and had previously undergone a liver transplant.A medical bulletin issued by the hospital stated that he was provided ventilator support, antibiotics, dialysis and other intensive life-saving treatments. However, during the course of treatment, he suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite extensive resuscitation efforts by the medical team, he could not be revived.Salim Kumar first rose to prominence through mimicry and comedy, earning widespread popularity for his impeccable comic timing and distinctive screen presence. Over the years, he evolved into one of Malayalam cinema’s most versatile performers, excelling in both comedic and serious roles.He received the Kerala State Film Award for Second Best Actor for his performance in “Achanurangatha Veedu” and later won both the National Film Award and the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for his critically acclaimed role in “Adaminte Makan Abu” (2010).With a career spanning more than 300 films, Salim Kumar left an indelible mark on Malayalam cinema. Audiences fondly remember his memorable performances in films such as “Meeshamadhavan,” “Pulival Kalyanam,” “Mayavi,” and “Kalyanaraman,” among many others.Chief Minister VD Satheesan expressed grief over the actor’s demise, recalling his close association with Salim Kumar. In a message posted on X, the Chief Minister described him as a versatile genius who could effortlessly evoke both laughter and emotion, adding that Malayalam cinema had lost a legend while he had lost a brother.Several members of the Malayalam film fraternity visited the hospital to pay their last respects to the beloved actor, whose passing marks the end of an era in Malayalam cinema.Published on June 7, 2026